Nigeria News (Standard)
Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch Blasts Starmer After Resignation, Demands Labour Accountability
Badenoch faults Starmer’s policies on tax, defence and welfare as Labour begins search for new UK leader
Badenoch faults Starmer’s policies on tax, defence and welfare as Labour begins search for new UK leader
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has sharply criticised outgoing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer following his announcement to step down as Labour leader, blaming his administration’s policies for the country’s current challenges. The development was made public in London on Monday, with Badenoch insisting that Starmer’s leadership failed to deliver on key national priorities.
Starmer, who served as Labour leader and Prime Minister for less than two years, announced his intention to resign but stated he would remain in office until a new party leader is chosen. His decision comes after months of mounting political pressure, policy reversals and growing public dissatisfaction with his government’s performance.
Reacting via a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Badenoch accused Starmer’s government of raising taxes, stalling welfare reforms and neglecting defence funding. She stated: “Hiking national insurance. The Family Farm Tax. Giving up on real welfare reform. Not funding our defence. Not drilling our own oil and gas. Appointing Peter Mandelson… then lying about what had happened. Britain is not ungovernable. Keir Starmer is a terrible Prime Minister.”
Badenoch further alleged that the problems facing the United Kingdom were tied not just to Starmer as an individual but also to the wider Labour Party ideology. She claimed Labour MPs prefer higher taxes to distribute more benefits, describing it as a matter of “Labour’s choices and their values.” In another post, she challenged Andy Burnham—seen as a key figure in the ongoing leadership contest—on issues of national security and called for a general election if he cannot provide answers on defence spending.
The Conservative chieftain used the occasion to make a case for her party’s return to power, declaring: “We need to get Britain working again. We need the Conservatives.” Meanwhile, Labour has commenced its internal process to elect a new leader who will succeed Starmer as both party head and prime minister.
Starmer defended his record in a statement outside Number 10 Downing Street, saying he acted in Britain’s best interests during his time in office and would remain until Labour completes its leadership selection process. The next weeks are expected to see intensified political activities within the Labour Party as stakeholders position themselves ahead of the leadership vote.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti PDP Candidate Oluyede Rejects Governorship Poll Result, Vows Legal Challenge
Oluyede says he will pursue all lawful and democratic avenues to contest outcome of Ekiti State governorship election
Oluyede says he will pursue all lawful and democratic avenues to contest outcome of Ekiti State governorship election
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, Olumide Oluyede, has rejected the official result announced by the electoral authorities on Monday, vowing to challenge the outcome using every legal and democratic means. The declaration followed the conclusion of polling across local government areas in the South-West state.
Oluyede’s rejection came shortly after results were made public by electoral officials, with victory handed to a rival candidate. In a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti, the PDP candidate described the process as flawed and called on his supporters to remain calm while the party pursues redress through appropriate channels.
The development is significant for Ekiti State politics, as disputes over electoral outcomes have been common in past cycles. Observers say the PDP’s decision to contest the result signals likely protracted litigation and could delay final resolution of leadership for the state.
Oluyede stated that he would seek justice through Nigeria’s established legal system. He emphasised his commitment to democratic norms, saying: “We will use all lawful and democratic means to reclaim our mandate.” The candidate urged his supporters not to take laws into their hands while legal proceedings are ongoing.
It remains unclear when legal filings will commence or what specific grounds Oluyede’s team will cite. The electoral commission and security agencies have not yet responded publicly to his statement. Political analysts expect heightened political activity as Ekiti awaits possible tribunal hearings or court interventions in coming weeks.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Messi Sets Two World Cup Records in Single Match at Qatar 2026
Argentina captain achieves new milestones as FIFA confirms historic feat during group stage encounter
Argentina captain achieves new milestones as FIFA confirms historic feat during group stage encounter
Lionel Messi, captain of the Argentina national team, has broken two separate World Cup records in one match at the ongoing tournament in Qatar. The achievement took place during a group stage fixture on Monday, 22 June 2026, as confirmed by FIFA.
During the encounter, Messi surpassed previous benchmarks set by football legends, becoming the player with the most appearances in World Cup history and also setting a new mark for goals scored in the competition by an Argentine. The Argentine forward’s performance was instrumental as his side secured a crucial victory that boosted their chances of advancing to the knockout rounds.
The feat is significant for Nigerian football followers and global fans alike, as Messi’s consistency and longevity continue to set a standard in international football. His record-breaking appearance has now placed him ahead of former German international Lothar Matthäus, while his goal tally surpasses that of previous Argentine record-holder Gabriel Batistuta.
FIFA officially acknowledged Messi’s accomplishment shortly after the final whistle, describing it as “a testament to his enduring quality and leadership on the world stage.” Many sports analysts have noted that such achievements not only cement Messi’s legacy but also inspire younger players worldwide.
With this development, attention will turn to Argentina’s next fixture as supporters wonder if Messi will extend his record further. The ongoing World Cup continues to provide memorable moments for fans across Nigeria and beyond.
Nigeria News (Standard)
14-Year-Old Boy Shot Dead in Osun, Father Alleges Political Thugs Responsible
Incident sparks outrage in Osun community as grieving family calls for police investigation into suspected politically-motivated violence
Incident sparks outrage in Osun community as grieving family calls for police investigation into suspected politically-motivated violence
A 14-year-old boy has been killed by gunfire in Osun State, with the victim’s father blaming the incident on suspected political thugs. The tragic event occurred on Monday, June 22, in an unnamed community within the state, according to initial reports from local sources.
Details of how the shooting unfolded remain unclear. However, the bereaved father claims his son was targeted and fatally shot by individuals he described as political thugs. No official confirmation has yet been provided by the Osun State Police Command regarding arrests or ongoing investigations.
The killing has heightened concerns about politically-linked violence in parts of Osun State, especially given rising tensions reported around local government areas in previous months. Community members have expressed fear that such incidents could escalate if not addressed swiftly by security agencies.
As at press time, no statement had been issued by either the Osun State Government or political parties named in the allegation. Police authorities have also not commented publicly on the matter. The victim’s family is demanding a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
Residents and rights groups are urging security operatives to prioritise the case and restore confidence among locals ahead of upcoming political activities in the state.
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